This site is based on my daily practice of traditional Shotokan Karate-Do here in Oita City, Japan. More than anything else, unlike the majority of other karate-do websites, this page is primarily dedicated to training itself; that is, Karate-Do as a vehicle for holistic development.

Saturday, 7 June 2008

Asai Sensei's Birthday

Today is Sensei's birthday so if he was still with us, he would have turned 73 years old. I still cannot believe that nearly two years have elapsed since he passed away. Every practice I try to meditate on what Asai Sensei taught and explained to me. I know that in every respect I fall short of what he wanted me to achieve. Regardless, I have the satisfaction of pressing on in hope of perhaps one day getting somewhere close. It goes without saying, that following the model of Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei, really ensures that I achieve my maximum potential as a karateka. Days, months and years pass so very quickly... So whatever we do (work, academic study, karate etc) I believe we should give our utmost best like Sensei did. Such thinking, and application of this thinking "every day the sun rises" can only result in success. More importantly this 'way of life' leads to self-satisfaction. Taking shortcuts literally cheats ourselves and this can only result in a reduction of self-esteem. Why not be 'the best you can be' at whatever you challenge in your life?

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I'd like to end this post by quoting one of Asai Sensei's favourite sayings. Please think about this: "Todays training must be better than yesterdays training, and tomorrows training must be better than todays."

About Me

My name is Andre Bertel. I am a New Zealand born karateka who lives in Oita City (Oita Prefecture, Japan). I've practiced the Shotokan style for many years, spending much time here in Japan, seeking to improve my skills and understanding of authentic Karate-Do. I was a student of the late Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei. While I may never reach a high level in Karate-Do, I endeavour to do my best via daily training. Furthermore, I believe in promoting the true 'traditional Budo Karate' of Japan, which has and continues to be seriously undermined worldwide: especially in the West.
I am in deep gratitude for the wonderful friendships I have made worldwide, as an instructor, and as an ongoing student of Karate-Do. Overall, Karate-Do has been my way of life, and is something I live everyday.